Public support rescues TomatoFest

After 21 years of helping people, the TomatoFest got a helping hand from the public.
About $22,000 is needed to put on the annual two-day event which highlights family, community, and, of course, tomatoes.
When organizers were short of money at the beginning of the summer, a last-minute push for sponsorship was successful.
"It was amazing how everyone stepped forward," said Janice Sanders, TomatoFest's co-president. "It was just reconfirmation that the people care about it in the county."
Adding to the contributions of event sponsors, the bands and sound crews performed for free, contributing to a $5,000 savings, entertainment director Diane Bauso said.
"This year, after the first band said they were going to (perform for free), and then the next one, and then the sound guys, they all jumped on board," Bauso said.
Such enthusiasm for giving is part of TomatoFest's history. The event has raised more than $246,000 for local food pantries since it began. This year's profits will be allocated to eight county pantries.
This year's TomatoFest also hosted 35 local nonprofit organizations.
"It's an opportunity to sign up volunteers giving their time or money," said Debbie Clark, chair of family selection at Habitat for Humanity.
Those who brought young children to the festival found the family tent was popular. After having their faces painted, children could pet tortoises and snakes brought by MaxMan Reptile Rescue, build vegetable sculptures and learn how to keep track of sugar in their food.
Stands selling fried green tomatoes, pulled pork sandwiches, funnel cake and ice cream boasted steady lines all day long.
A popular addition this year were the rides, provided by Playland Amusements.
Camden Wehrle, 4, of Seneca Falls, and her parents, John and Denise, sat in the park eating ice cream.
"We came for the rides," Denise said. "She loves the rides."
"No," Camden said. "And ice cream!"